Implant

What are dental implants?

Dental implants are the most long-lasting solution for replacing missing teeth.

They consist of a titanium post (implant) that is surgically placed into the jawbone, acting as an artificial tooth root. A custom-made crown is then attached to the implant, restoring the appearance and function of a natural tooth.

Benefits of dental implants over bridges and dentures?

Durability

Feature	Dental Implant	Dental Bridge	Removable Denture
Longevity	Lifetime potential (20+ years)	5-15 years or longer (highly depends on oral hygiene)	5-7 years (may requires relining/replacement)
Bone Preservation	Preserves jawbone integrity	No bone stimulation	May accelerate bone loss

Procedure

Feature	Dental Implant	Dental Bridge	Removable Denture
Affect adjacent teeth?	Does not require modification of adjacent teeth	Requires adjacent teeth modification	Usually does not require modification of adjacent teeth
Treatment Time	3-6 months (multiple visits)	2-3 weeks (2-3 visits)	1-2 weeks (2-4 visits)
Candidacy	Requires adequate bone volume. If not, bone grafting procedure may be required.	Requires healthy adjacent teeth	Suitable for most patients

Maintenance

Feature	Dental Implant	Dental Bridge	Removable Denture
Daily Care	Like natural teeth (brushing & flossing)	Requires floss threaders/special cleaning tools	Daily removal and cleaning
Professional Maintenance	Regular dental check-ups	Regular dental check-ups	Regular check-ups & possible adjustments

Aesthetics

Feature	Dental Implant	Dental Bridge	Removable Denture
Natural Appearance	Most natural-looking	Very natural-looking	Less natural-looking
Visible Components	No visible metal	Possible margin visibility	May have visible clasps

Function

Feature	Dental Implant	Dental Bridge	Removable Denture
Chewing Efficiency	90-100% of natural teeth	80-90% of natural teeth	30-60% of natural teeth
Stability	Extremely stable	Very stable (depends if teeth supporting bridge are in good condition)	May shift during chewing
Comfort	Feels like natural teeth	Very comfortable	May cause sore spots, requires adaptation
Speech Impact	No impact	Minimal impact	May affect speech initially

Procedure for dental implant surgery?

The implant process typically involves the following steps:

Initial Consultation:
A comprehensive oral examination, including X-rays or 3D scans, to assess bone density and plan the treatment.
Implant Placement:
Under local anesthesia, the titanium implant is surgically placed into the jawbone. (A temporary crown may be fitted.)
Healing Period:
The implant is left to fuse with the jawbone, which takes 3 to 6 months.
Final Crown Placement:
Once healed, an impression or a scan is taken to create a custom crown, which is then attached to the implant.

FAQs About Dental Implants

How long does the implant process take?

The entire process typically takes 3 to 6 months, depending on the healing time required for the implant to fuse with the jawbone (osseointegration).
In some cases, immediate loading implants may reduce the treatment time.

Is the implant procedure painful?

The procedure is performed under local anesthesia, so patients typically feel no discomfort during the surgery.
Post-surgery, mild pain or swelling may occur, which can be managed with prescribed medications.

Are dental implants suitable for everyone?

Not everyone is a candidate for implants. Factors such as insufficient bone density, uncontrolled diabetes, or severe gum disease may affect eligibility.
A thorough evaluation by a dentist is necessary to determine suitability.

What is bone grafting, and when is it needed?

Bone grafting is a procedure to rebuild bone in the jaw when it has deteriorated due to tooth loss or gum disease. It is often required before or at the same time of implant placement to ensure the implant has adequate support.

How do I care for dental implants?

Brush and floss daily to maintain oral hygiene.
Use an antibacterial mouthwash to reduce bacteria.
Avoid chewing hard foods that may damage the implant.
Schedule regular dental check-ups and cleanings.

What are the risks of dental implants?

Potential risks include:

Infection at the implant site.
Implant failure due to poor osseointegration.
Damage to surrounding teeth or nerves.
Peri-implantitis (inflammation around the implant).

What should I expect after implant surgery?

After implant surgery, you may experience:

Mild pain or discomfort: This is normal and can be managed with prescribed painkillers.
Swelling: Apply an ice pack to the affected area to reduce swelling.
Bleeding: Some minor bleeding is normal. Bite on a gauze pad to control it.
Dietary restrictions: Stick to soft foods and avoid hot, spicy, or hard foods for the first few days.
Oral hygiene: Continue brushing but avoid the surgical site initially. Use a saltwater rinse to keep the area clean.

Why is it necessary to replace a missing tooth with an implant?

Missing teeth can lead to:

Prevents Bone Loss
Maintains Tooth Alignment
Restores Chewing Function
Preserves Facial Structure
Improves Speech
Enhances Aesthetics
Protects Adjacent Teeth
Long-Term Solution

Can people with osteoporosis get dental implants?

Osteoporosis may affect the initial stability of the implant and prolong the healing process.
A thorough evaluation by a dentist is essential to determine suitability.